Black cohosh is a plant that can be easily found in forests along the Eastern United States and parts of Canada. Physicians first exploited the medicinal uses of black cohosh for treatment of inflammation, fevers, arthritis and menstrual problems back in the 1800s. Currently, this herb is commonly used as a supplement to alleviate menstrual cramping and hot flashes during menopause. Black cohosh is also used as an aid to balance female hormones, such as estrogen, during menopause. Therefore, one would assume this herbal extract directly affects the role of estrogen in the body. However, research has proven that black cohosh does not exhibit estrogenic activity at all and acts by alternative means. Scientists have shown that black cohosh acts as an antioxidant and protects DNA from damage. Studies have specifically demonstrated this DNA-protective function in breast cancer cells.
Liver damage
According to the NIH, numerous reports have been made in that individuals taking black cohosh developed liver disease or incurred liver damage from the supplement. As with all pharmaceuticals and supplements, the liver is responsible for breaking down, detoxifying and excreting these foreign compounds. Some pose greater threats to liver damage based on dose and chemical composition. Various consumer groups are urging the FDA to issue a warning based on the liver damage from black cohosh, while other groups are discrediting this risk by illustrating the small number of cases with liver damage relative to the large number of individuals consuming this supplement.
Breast cancer metastasis
Concerns have been raised that black cohosh can trigger the development and spread of breast cancer. Clinical data presented last year at the American Association for Cancer Research conference showed that black cohosh accelerated the growth and spreading of breast tumors in mice. However, other studies published in the journal Menopause in July/August 2004 report the safety of the extract when evaluated in females who are at risk for or survived breast cancer. Evidence in the lab and in mice may warrant concern over a potential safety issue that has yet to be proven in humans.
Induces labor
For centuries, black cohosh has been used to induce labor. This herbal extract stimulates the uterus and can also delay menstruation. It is also known that this supplement affects the female hormonal balance. Therefore, it is advised that pregnant women refrain from taking black cohosh to avoid induction of labor and other side effects.
Weight gain
As with most birth control pills, black cohosh affects the balance of female hormones. Traditionally, this leads to an increase in weight for women. Whether the increase in pounds is from additional water weight or actual fat increase, there have been reports that black cohosh is responsible for weight gain according to the Nutritional Health Supplements Guide.
References
- Liu, J, et al. "Evaluation of estrogenic activity of plant extracts for the potential treatment of menopausal symptoms." J Agric Food Chem. 2001 May;49(5):2472-9.
- Burdette, JE, et al. "Black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa L.) protects against menadione-induced DNA damage through scavenging of reactive oxygen species: bioassay-directed isolation and characterization of active principles." J Agric Food Chem. 2002 Nov 20;50(24):7022-8.
- Nutritional Health Supplements Guide: Black Cohosh
- Nutraingredients USA
- NIH Workshop on the Safety of Black Cohosh in Clinical Studies.
Member Comments